Writing a Series of Paragraphs
1. Agree or disagree with the question.
2. Draw a diagram similar to the one below in the space for rough work.
3. In the oval, write, “Yes, I agree with…” or “No, I don’t agree with…” (this will be the topic of your
paragraphs).
4. Think about 2 or 3 reasons why you agree or disagree with the question. Write each reason below large
oval.
5. Think of an example for each reason why you agree or disagree with the question. Write an example below
each reason you listed.
6. The large oval becomes the introductory sentence of the paragraph.
7. The reasons why become the body paragraphs.
8. The large oval, slightly reworded, becomes the concluding paragraph.
Use in Intro and
Conclusion:
Yes, I agree with …
or
No, I do not agree with…
Why?
Give your first
example.
Why?
Give your second
example.
Why?
Give your third
example.
Writing a Series of Paragraphs: Checklist
The Task
Title
Rough Notes
Writing the
Series of
Paragraphs
Do I…
Focus on Key Words
Clearly AGREE or
DISAGREE
Use a graphic organizer?
Jot point form notes?
Directly relate my response
to the prompt?
Have a thoughtful
progression of ideas?
First
Paragraph
Have a clear, consistent
opinion?
Identify key points that are
thoughtfully chosen?
Second /
Third
Paragraphs
Develop my position with
specific supporting details?
Include examples/proof
illustrating my point?
Last
Paragraph
Restate my Opinion?
Summarize my main
points?
Include a final thought –
connection to community/
world?
Overall
PRACTICE:
“Should impaired drivers be
allowed to keep their licences”
Write at least 3
paragraphs?
Write in complete
sentences?
Write consistently in first or
third person?
Check grammar, spelling,
punctuation for
correctness?
For a sample article go to http://www.cawthrapark.com/eqao/sample.htm
Series of Paragraphs Expressing an Opinion Organizer
Read the statement in the Task box
Do you Agree or Disagree?
Re-write the “should” statement as a topic sentence where you clearly state
your opinion. You may begin I believe… (First person is allowed)
Write out the MAIN POINT that supports your position,
stated in your introduction
*you will have to explain your REASONING with
supporting proofs, examples – even facts or statistics
-provide 2-3 sentences to persuade your adult
audience that your opinion is thoughtful and valid.
1. Support
proof
3. Support
proof
2. Support
proof
Write out the second key POINT that supports
your position, stated in your introduction. Again,
support your REASON with 2-3 proofs
1. Support
proof
2. Support
proof
3. Support
proof
If you wish, you may write out the third key
POINT that supports your position, stated in
your introduction. Again, support your
REASON with 2-3 proofs
Conclusion
In a final paragraph, RESTATE your opinion. Sum up your main POINTS to reaffirm that
the position you have clearly stated is a valid one. Include a connection to your communityor the country, even the WORLD to persuade your adult audience.
Series of Paragraphs Expressing an Opinion Organizer
Read the Task Prompt carefully
DO YOU AGREE OR DISAGREE?
dDdisagreedisagreeDISAGREE?
Rewrite the first statement as an “I believe…” statement.
Main Point
If you wish, you may write out a
3rd Key Point.
2nd Key Point
“In Conclusion…” (restate opinion, sum up main points, final thought)
Series of Paragraphs Rubric
o
o
o
o
Is your opinion piece related to the prompt?
 Did you begin by restating the prompt?
Is your opinion consistently either Pro or Con
(agree or disagree) NOT BOTH.
Do you have specific supporting details:
 Organized points
 Clear examples
A thoughtful progression of ideas means each
of your points builds up to your conclusion.